MONTREAL, Nov. 20, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Walter Capital Partners is pleased to announce a major new investment in Bonlook, a company specializing in the sale of optical products both online and in-store. This financing will enable Bonlook with the opportunity to continue to grow its online presence and expand its vast network of stores. Propelled by an initial investment by Walter Capital Partners in 2016, the rapidly growing company now counts 195 employees and 15 stores, and sells its products online in 25 countries.
As a long-term partner of Bonlook, Walter Capital will contribute its entrepreneurial approach and provide them access to its extensive network of contacts, both at home and abroad. To date, assistance from the investment team has enabled Bonlook to accelerate the opening of new stores in Quebec and Ontario, as well as to refine its online platform, as it continues developing an omnichannel model that is unique in the optical business.
“We’re enthusiastic about continuing our collaboration with Bonlook’s cofounders and their teams, building upon the outstanding working relationship we’ve developed together over the past year. Our partnership will pursue the rapid development of the Bonlook brand, which is enjoying ever-greater recognition,” said Éric Phaneuf, Managing Partner of Walter Capital.
“As a result of the enthusiasm generated by the opening of our first stores, we intend to expand our network to approximately 50 points of sale in Canada by 2020, as a complement to our online sales platform. Tips and advice provided by our in-store stylists and opticians enhance the customer experience at all our locations,” said Sophie Boulanger, Bonlook Co-founder and President. “The financial backing from Walter Capital Partners, as well as the strategic advice and ongoing support from its teams, will enable us to achieve the objectives of our ambitious growth plan.”
ABOUT BONLOOK Bonlook is the ultimate destination for a wardrobe of trendy frames that feature impeccable quality, great value and easy purchase online or in-store. Since its inception, the Company’s objective has been to make prescription glasses designed in Montreal so accessible that they become must-have fashion accessories. The Company was launched online but now has 15 brick-and-mortar points of sale in Quebec and Ontario. It has grown to 195 employees and plans to have 50 stores in Canada by 2020. Bonlook’s omnichannel shopping experience sets it apart from other Canadian eyewear retailers. For more information, visit www.bonlook.com .
ABOUT WALTER CAPITAL PARTNERS Walter Capital Partners is a private equity firm and part of the Walter Group. Walter Capital invests capital and know-how in established small and medium-sized businesses to help accelerate their growth. Drawing on the entrepreneurial values of the Walter Group and the business leadership experience of its Managing Partners, Walter Capital offers solutions that are above and beyond purely financial transactions. Headquartered in Montreal, Walter Capital has a solid international network.
For further information:
Bonlook Christine Boivin, Marketing & Communications Director 514 293-3423 Christine.boivin@bonlook.com
Walter Capital Éric Phaneuf, Managing Partner 514 963-4963 ephaneuf@waltercapital.ca
